Using a Mac Mini as an Apple TV?

[Whackintosh]

I'm toying with the idea of getting a refurb unibody Mac Mini as an HTPC. I currently has a last gen Apple Tv, but it's limitations are frustrating and the fact that it runs hot day and night doesn't make me too happy. If I were to go this route, I'm wondering if there might be a way to get ATV menu screens as an option?

 

[Hellhammer]

You can use Plex which is a must-have app for HTPC. Not exactly the same as AppleTV but it's great. However, I don't think the current gen is much better than the prev gen you have. What limitation are you talking about?

 

[chriso89]

you have to buy black paint

 

[Whackintosh]

Ack - I'm a schmuck - I meant to type that I currently have a last-gen Apple TV, not Mac Mini! Will edit that right now. I've not got a Mini.

 

[TheStork]

I'm toying with the idea of getting a refurb unibody Mac Mini as an HTPC. I currently has a last gen Apple Tv, but it's limitations are frustrating and the fact that it runs hot day and night doesn't make me too happy. If I were to go this route, I'm wondering if there might be a way to get ATV menu screens as an option?

I'm using a 2.26 GHz min has a HTPC. I use Plex, and sometimes I use Front Row & iTunes. Works great after a lot of work getting the video to match my HDTV - my Mini only has the miniDisplayPort, not the HDMI. The new Mini will make it pretty easy.

Also, check out the Plex and MacRumors forums by searching on "Mac Mini HTPC setup" or something like that. I patterned my after a guy's write-up on his blog, but the domain name wasn't renewed. You may have more patience than I do for searching. The title of the write-up is
"HeySage » Blog Archive » Mac Mini Home Media Server".

My h/w set-up is:
Mac Mini 2.26 GHz, 4GB RAM, 500GB hard drive
NewerTech miniStack V3 w/1.5TB WD15EARS hard drive for iTunes library
NewerTech miniStack V2.5 w/1.5TB WD15EARS hard drive for iTunes library backup
MonoPrice Mini Displayport Male and USB Male/Toslink Audio to HDMI Female Converting Adapter (Product ID 6331)

If you decide to use your Mini, check out this tutorial on how to use Switches X to get the right screen resolution for your non 2010 Mini.

Good Luck!